Odor control is an increasingly important feature in textiles, spanning across the various garment segments, from activewear to home textiles. Unpleasant odors in textiles often stem from the interaction between bodily secretions and bacteria, resulting in the breakdown of organic matter into volatile odor compounds. As consumer demand for fresh and long-lasting textiles grows, manufacturers and brands must ensure that their odor control technologies perform as intended. However, with multiple test methods available, selecting the most appropriate one can be challenging.

This article provides an overview of four commonly used odor control test methods—AATCC TM211, AATCC TM216, ISO 17299-2, and ISO17299-3—highlighting their similarities and differences. By understanding the strengths and applications of each, textile professionals can make informed decisions about the best approach for evaluating their products.

Commonalities Across Odor Control Test Methods
Despite differences, these four test methods share key principles in odor evaluation:

• Quantitative Measurement: All four tests generate quantifiable data on odor reduction efficacy. AATCC TM211 measures the reduction of microbially generated ammonia, while AATCC TM216 evaluates odor absorbency. ISO 17299-2 and ISO 17299-3 measure odor reduction based on the concentration of volatile odor compounds, with the latter using gas chromatography for higher precision.
• Use of a Reference Sample: Each method incorporates a reference sample to establish a baseline for comparison. AATCC TM211 uses an untreated fabric control, AATCC TM216 measures inherent odor absorbency, and the ISO methods compare odor compound concentrations in test and control environments.
• Controlled Laboratory Conditions: Standardized testing conditions, such as those recommended in ISO 17299-1 (23°C and 50% relative humidity), ensure consistency and reproducibility of results. Maintaining a controlled environment is essential for accurate and reproducible assessments.

Key Differences Between Odor Control Test Methods
Although the fundamental goal remains the same—measuring odor control performance—each test method differs in its scope, targeted odorants, and evaluation process.

Selecting the Right Odor Control Test Method
Choosing the most appropriate odor control test depends on the product's intended function, the type of technology used, and the specific odorant of concern. Below are general guidelines to help with selection:

• For Antibacterial Finishes: If the goal is to evaluate bacterial odor reduction in treated textiles, AATCC TM211 is the preferred method.
• For Non-Biocidal Odor Management Technologies: If testing a durably bound non-biocidal treatment, AATCC TM216 provides a quantitative measurement of its effectiveness.
• For Volatile Deodorization Technologies: If the focus is on volatile deodorizers, ISO 17299-2 is a practical option for measuring odor reduction using detector tubes. For a broader evaluation of multiple volatile odor components, ISO 17299-3 is recommended due to its high-precision gas chromatography analysis.

Effective odor control is essential for ensuring that textiles maintain freshness and comfort in real-world use. However, selecting the right test method is critical to accurately assessing the efficacy of odor management technologies. While all four test methods—AATCC TM211, AATCC TM216,ISO 17299-2, and ISO 17299-3—provide valuable insights into odor reduction performance, each serves a distinct purpose based on the targeted odorants and technology type. By understanding these differences, textile manufacturers and brands can choose the most appropriate method for their products, ensuring reliable performance claims and consumer satisfaction.

For further guidance on selecting the best test method for your treated article or technology needs, contact the IAC for expert consultation and support.